Türkiye will finalize the technical infrastructure for 5G technology by the end of the year, with plans for the service to be available by 2026, according to Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Abdulkadir Uraloglu.
Speaking to reporters, Uraloglu stated that the Information and Communication Technologies Authority (BTK) is prioritizing the completion of 5G-related technical infrastructure and authorizations before the end of 2025.
5G auction, policy framework underway
BTK is set to conduct a 5G authorization auction later this year as part of Türkiye’s efforts to expand high-speed mobile connectivity.
“BTK will focus on the technical infrastructure of 5G and complete policy and strategy proposals for the 5G authorization process. These recommendations will be submitted to the Ministry, and a final policy will be determined,” Uraloglu said.
The minister emphasized the importance of domestic production in Türkiye’s 5G vision, stating that the country aims to manufacture telecommunication equipment and components locally, fostering technological independence and contributing to the national economy.
Regulatory changes for 5G expansion
As part of Türkiye’s 5G rollout, Uraloglu announced that the Electronic Communications Devices Security Certification Regulation will be revised to streamline certification and testing procedures.
According to Vodafone Türkiye CEO Engin Aksoy, speaking to Türkiye daily, the delay in 5G adoption costs the country approximately ₺10 billion ($282.2 million) per month, amounting to ₺120 billion ($3.38 billion) in loss for each year of postponement.
A new regulation, titled Electronic Communications Device Certification Processes Regulation, will replace the existing framework, aiming to:
- Reduce approval times for security certifications
- Facilitate the deployment of small-cell infrastructure
- Enhance consumer benefits in telecommunication services
“The goal is to remove barriers to the expansion of small cell technology while ensuring consumer welfare and data security,” Uraloglu stated.
5G trials and future deployment
While 5G has already been tested at 34 locations across Türkiye, including Istanbul Airport, Uraloglu reaffirmed that full-scale deployment will align with the government’s “domestic and national 5G” initiative.
Efforts are also being made to accelerate research on 6G technology, which is expected to follow Türkiye’s 5G implementation roadmap.